New Delhi, July 22: The controversy surrounding the suspension of Trinamool Congress (TMC) MP Kalyan Banerjee has intensified during the ongoing monsoon session of Parliament. TMC MP Sougata Roy raised questions about the suspension process, while BJP MP Sushmita Dev emphasized the need for discussions to resolve the ongoing deadlock in Parliament.
Sougata Roy stated that around 2 PM, amidst chaos in the House, the acting Speaker announced Banerjee’s suspension for the remainder of the session. Due to the uproar, most MPs were unable to comprehend what the Speaker was saying. If the basis for the suspension is the alleged argument between Kalyan Banerjee and MP Mithali Bag, it occurred when the House was adjourned, the microphones were off, and the presiding officer was absent. Therefore, that incident cannot be considered part of the House proceedings.
He alleged that Kalyan Banerjee was neither given prior notice nor an opportunity to present his case. This action is not in accordance with parliamentary rules. Rule 374(2) does not apply when the House is adjourned. He also met with the Lok Sabha Speaker regarding this matter. The Speaker mentioned that the suspension proposal came from the ruling party, and he would discuss it and announce his decision the following day. The TMC has demanded the immediate withdrawal of the suspension.
Meanwhile, BJP MP Sushmita Dev commented on Banerjee’s suspension, stating that fluctuations and disagreements are natural in politics, but political opposition should not turn into personal animosity. All parties must maintain the dignity and decorum of the House within a democratic framework. It is up to political parties to decide with whom to engage politically, but adherence to parliamentary conduct is essential for all.
Regarding the ongoing uproar and the clash between the ruling and opposition parties in the monsoon session, she noted that if issues and conditions keep changing, the proceedings of the House will not progress. Initially, the opposition demanded a discussion, which both the government and the presiding officer agreed to. However, the opposition later shifted to demanding resignations before discussing the matter. The primary responsibility of Parliament is to resolve issues through debate and discussion. If there are shortcomings in the education system or any other subject, they can only be addressed through discussions in Parliament.
She emphasized that if the opposition genuinely cares about students’ interests, they should participate in discussions in the House. Students cannot voice their concerns directly in Parliament; their voices reach the House through their MPs. Therefore, if discussions are not allowed, the students’ voices will not be effectively raised.
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